Raising Arrows Children's Ministry Conference

In a century where children are having to navigate the pressures of a digital world and are continually bombarded with destructive and humanistic ideologies, we as the Church can not afford to reduce children’s ministry to a ‘babysitting’ or ‘entertainment’ service while the ‘real’ stuff happens with the adults! God is encountering children in powerful, supernatural ways all over the earth and we believe that it is His intention that they are part of the glorious company of end-time revivalists. But we also know that behind the greatest world-changers, there are often uncelebrated champions who have prophetically discerned the target, and pointed the arrows toward their mark through their service of parenting, teaching and mentoring. We want to invite you - in whatever arena of children’s work you are in - to attend our Raising Arrows conference from September 23rd - 24th at God Adventure Church, East London. 

The covid pandemic left very little of life unscathed. As we scrambled to adjust to a world in lockdown, we were thrown into situations and environments that challenged much of our long-formulated and relied-upon structures and strategies. Through our dis -ease God provoked us to consider new perspectives and ways of doing life and ministry. We believe that God is challenging us not to return to the familiar and comfortable territory we once knew in children’s work, but to take strides into the unchartered spaces of encounter and presence-centred ministry.  We also know that traversing a new land, without a map or compass can be a terrifying and wearisome business, especially if you’re feeling alone in the journey and in dire need of a God-encounter yourself. 

Two key principles for a thriving children’s ministry - being presence-centred and operating from a place of rest - will form the bedrock of what we cover. We want children not just to know about God and His word, but to know Him personally and to encounter Him in ways that are real and life-transforming. Sessions will be practical and informative as we lead you through ways in which to help children hear God’s voice and to share His words and love with others.  There will be opportunities to connect with other children’s workers, share and discuss ideas and receive input on curriculum, planning, and healing childhood trauma through children’s sozo. Most importantly however, we want you to encounter God’s love, and fresh commission through times of worship and personal ministry.

Our two guest speakers are seasoned and anointed children’s pastors. Lynette Snyman has been a children’s pastor for over 20 years. When reflecting on her work, she has this to say “Initially I believed it was all about teaching children about God, but now I believe that we should be teaching children how to connect with God.”  Lynette facilitates regular gatherings of children’s ministers for times of mentoring and equipping. Her homegrown curriculum is gaining traction and recognition in South African churches. You can find her curriculum on her website www.livingclay.co.za.

Esmé Schmitt is recognised at home and abroad for igniting and equipping children and teen revivalists. She has ministered extensively in Africa, Europe and North and South America. She is currently a pastor at Journey of Grace in Cape Town. You can find out more about Esmé and her ministry at www.esmeschmitt.com.